Summer Electrical Problems and How to Fix Them
It’s 97 degrees today in Los Angeles — which, if you ask me, should be a crime. As summer approaches, we can expect the heat to roll in, along with a wave of electrical issues brought on by these soaring temperatures.
Today, we’re breaking down some of the most common (and potentially dangerous) electrical problems that arise during hot weather — and how to prevent them.
Air Conditioner Overload
AC units draw a lot of power. If the circuit isn’t built to handle the load, breakers can trip or wires may overheat.
Solutions:
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Ensure your AC unit is on a dedicated circuit.
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Confirm the breaker size matches the unit’s amp draw.
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Clean the AC filters and coils regularly to reduce strain.
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If the circuit is undersized, consult an electrician to upgrade it.
Power Outages & Brownouts
Grid overload can cause blackouts or reduced voltage (brownouts), damaging sensitive electronics.
Solutions:
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Use uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for critical devices.
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Install surge protectors to guard against power fluctuations.
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Consider installing a whole house generator or backup battery.
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Take prevention measures by keeping batteries, flashlights, wireless chargers, etc. in an easy to access place.
Overheated Electrical Panels
High ambient heat + high usage = panel overheating. Simple as that. This could lead to fire hazards or breaker failure.
Solutions:
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Ensure the panel is in a well-ventilated area.
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Inspect for loose connections or rust.
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Have a licensed electrician evaluate the load and balance the circuit
Tripped Circuit Breakers
Using more appliances in summer causes more frequent tripping.
Solutions:
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Identify and redistribute loads across circuits.
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Avoid running multiple high-power devices on the same circuit.
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Upgrade old or weak breakers if needed.
Faulty Outdoor Lighting
You might not know this, but over time, heat, sun, and moisture can degrade wires and bulbs, causing premature fixture failures.
Solutions:
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Use weather rated (IP65 or higher) outdoor fixtures.
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Check for corroded wires and replace them if needed.
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Switch to LEDs, which handle heat better than incandescents.
Extension Cord Overuse
Summer events (like outdoor barbeques and pool parties) often rely on multiple extension cords, which may overheat.
Solutions:
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Use heavy duty, outdoor rated cords.
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Avoid “daisy chaining” multiple cords.
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Consider installing additional outdoor outlets if usage is regular.
Pool & Spa Wiring Issues
High humidity and water exposure can cause shorts or electrocution risk, especially when it comes to highly trafficked and wet areas such as pool decks and hot tubs.
Solutions:
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Ensure GFCI protection is installed and functioning.
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Inspect for cracked conduit or exposed wires.
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Hire a certified electrician for pool bonding and grounding inspections. This isn’t something you should DIY.
Animal/Insect Damage
Hot weather doesn’t exclusively affect humans. Small animals and insects often seek shelter from the hot sun in crawl spaces and attics where wires often run through. Animals like mice, squirrels, and even cats can chew through wires, causing issues. Meanwhile, bugs can build homes and nests in electrical sockets which can cause damage to fixtures.
Solutions:
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Inspect attic and garage wiring seasonally.
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Use rodent repellent tape or sprays.
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Seal up access points to prevent entry.
Protect Your Space
At the end of the day, preventative measures are always better than in-the-moment solutions. Inspect the cord and casing before plugging in any appliance you’ve stored away all winter. Replace units that look rusted or worn down. Always ensure that you have a certified electrician come in and do any of the necessary repairs or installations you may be planning so that you can enjoy a safe and fun Summer!
